Most people say Granny Smith apples are the best for baking.Any tart-ish apple would work well.

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If the peel in such pastries doesn't bother you, and the apples are organic, there is no need to peel them.Just wash, rinse well, and dry.

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You can use whole-grain flours in place of white ones.The finished product will be heavier, but if you switchgradually, starting with, say, half white and half whole wheat,you may get used to the difference. Not saying your friends will, though!